In 2022 there were 15 fire deaths in Washington State that occurred in recreational vehicles. In an effort to increase safety, the following tips are recommended:
Check your propane tank regularly and test for leaks.
Install and maintain working carbon monoxide and smoke detectors.
Install a fire extinguisher, know how to use, and conduct a monthly inspection.
Keep doorways and walkways clear.
Keep space heaters 3 feet away for combustibles. Ensure the space heater unit has tip protection features.
Practice an escape plan.
Make sure to use electrical outlets properly, and do not overload the circuitry.
Watch what you cook and turn burner and ovens off when finished.
Inspect your RV camper before heading down the roadways.
For more information, contact the State Fire Marshal’s Office at (360) 596-3904.
MCPHERSON COUNTY, Kan. (KWCH) –Family said a Wichita area man is grieving after his pregnant wife and two of his sons died from what the family said was carbon monoxide poisoning. Now, community members are stepping up to help Jason Richey and his surviving 3-year-old son. Felicia Richey and her two older sons, Tison and Bentley, were found dead Saturday inside a camper near the Inman Motocross track.
“…it is still a very real risk even in a tent, any enclosed area, and anything that is a gas-burning stove or heater can put off carbon monoxide. Just don’t want people to let their guards down and think that just because it didn’t happen in a house that it can’t happen in a tent.”
“We put carbon monoxide detectors in our homes to make us aware of any odorless leaks coming from our furnace, stove or generator. However, when staying in hotels, Airbnbs, RVs, tents, campers, etc., there could either be a lack of carbon monoxide detectors in general, or a lack of knowing if they’re working or not.”
“A listener friend of MJ’s passed along the story of his trip to a music festival in Wisconsin. The carbon monoxide detector he purchased may have saved his life.”
“It was 10 years ago this week that five people died of carbon monoxide poisoning in a recreational vehicle at Clarksville Speedway after they ran a generator that leaked into their small, rented camper.
The investigation results showed the RV had a carbon monoxide detector inside, but the batteries were dead.
The five people killed were Timothy Stone, 39; James Wall, 38; Jonathan Over and Kathryn Over, both age 27; and Allison Bagwell-Wyatt, 32. The five victims left behind 13 young children.”
“Three men died and two others are in critical condition after authorities believe a generator too close to their camper led to carbon monoxide exposure…(fire official said) making sure you have carbon monoxide detectors in your home and RV could save your life. He also said to be sure you are reading the instructions on generators to ensure they are safely being used.”
“A woman who was living at a homeless encampment set up in a private resident’s yard died Sunday morning from what the camp organizer believes was carbon monoxide poisoning she got after trying to keep her tent warm.”
“The caveat about propane and butane is that when they burn, both release carbon monoxide, which can be deadly…camping with a carbon monoxide alarm is a wise precautionary measure when using any gas-burning tent heater.”
Heartbreaking story out of Weleetka, Oklahoma. So important to teach kids about the dangers of CO. Never use a generator indoors – they should be at least 20 feet away from all living spaces. Does your travel trailer have a CO alarm?